Serving our community since 1968
Diabetes Information
Understanding Diabetes, Prevention, and Risks for Our Community
Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting from decreased insulin production, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications.
Type 2 diabetes may account for about 90% to 95% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. It usually begins as insulin resistance, a disorder in which the cells do not use insulin properly. The pancreas gradually loses its ability to produce insulin as the need for insulin rises.
Lifestyle & Prevention
Research studies conducted over a six-year period, in the United States and abroad, found that lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes among high-risk adults. In the studies, participants made lifestyle changes such as improving their diet and pursuing moderate-intensity physical activities (such as walking for two and a half hours each week).
For participants of both sexes and all age and racial groups, the development of diabetes was reduced 40% to 60%.
Prevalence of Diabetes (Year 2000)
- 18.8% among American Indians and Alaska Natives*
- 15.0% among non-Hispanic blacks*
- 13.6% among Hispanic/Latino Americans*
- 7.4% among non-Hispanic whites*
Risk Among American Indians & Alaska Natives
On average, American Indians and Alaska Natives are 2.6 times more likely to have diabetes than non-Hispanic whites of similar age.*
For more information, visit the CDC Diabetes Fact Sheet:
*Source: 1997-1999 National Health Interview Survey and 1988-1994 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey estimates projected to year 2000-from 1998 Indian Health Service Outpatient Database.